The Stand-in Side Character Only Wants to Make Money

Chen Bai died from overwork while trying to pay off a million-dollar debt. To his surprise, he becomes a side character who not only shares his name and appearance but is also burdened with an even greater debt left by his father—a staggering million yuan. In the original storyline, this character is destined to be a mere stand-in for the male lead’s lost love, enduring an abusive relationship and ultimately succumbing to despair by taking his own life. Refusing to repeat the tragic fate scripted for him, Chen Bai confronts his overwhelming debt with unwavering determination. Embracing his innate work ethic, he juggles eight jobs a day—by day, a dedicated stand-in actor fully immersing himself in his role; by night, a relentless worker taking on odd jobs and live-streaming until the early hours. His exceptional skills and genuine dedication not only help him chip away at his colossal debt but also inadvertently capture the attention and affection of the male lead. When the original love returns, the male lead realizes he can’t let go of his feelings for Chen Bai. In a grand romantic gesture filled with flowers and music, he confesses his love. Yet, ever the pragmatist, Chen Bai interrupts to take a call, casually announcing that his shift has ended and he must head to his next job—unlocking someone’s door. Stunned, the male lead asks if there’s someone else. Chen Bai simply replies, “I need to go unlock someone’s door.” Balancing his roles as a professional stand-in and a part-time locksmith, Chen Bai navigates his new life with practicality and resilience. In defying his predestined path, he transforms from a tragic side character into the unexpected hero of his own story. A witty and heartwarming tale of determination and self-reliance, this novel explores how one man’s relentless work ethic and refusal to accept a doomed fate can rewrite the pages of destiny—even within the confines of a fictional world.